Top 15 Types Of Black Birds In Michigan (With Pictures)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Michigan's top 15 black birds, each with unique traits and stunning visuals—discover who makes the list.

black birds in michigan

Michigan is home to a diverse array of black birds, each exhibiting unique traits and behaviors. Prominent among these are the Red-winged Blackbird, notable for its glossy black plumage with striking red and yellow patches, commonly seen in marshy areas. The European Starling, displaying a green-purple tint, captivates with its dynamic murmurations. The Brown-headed Cowbird, known for its parasitic breeding, can be observed in grasslands and woodlands. Additionally, the Baltimore Oriole stands out with its vivid orange and black colors and melodious song. The Eastern Meadowlark, with its bright yellow underparts and distinct melodious calls, is also a notable species. Each bird brings a distinct presence to the Michigan landscape, further enriching its natural biodiversity. Exploring more about these species reveals the rich avian life gracing this state.

Red-winged Blackbird

marsh dwelling bird with melodies

One commonly encountered species in Michigan's wetlands is the Red-winged Blackbird, notable for its striking appearance and distinctive behaviors.

Males display glossy black feathers with distinctive red and yellow patches, while both genders possess conical bills. They thrive in Michigan marshes, often perched on cattails, sedges, and grasses.

In winter, they form flocks, enhancing their presence in these wetland areas.

European Starling

invasive bird species introduction

While the Red-winged Blackbird thrives in marshy areas, the European Starling, introduced in the late 19th century, is equally prevalent across Michigan's diverse habitats.

These introduced species are known for their distinctive appearance, with a green-purple tint, and their murmurations in the sky.

European Starlings adapt well to urban environments, frequently observed nesting in buildings and showcasing unique behavior that captivates observers throughout Michigan.

Brown-headed Cowbird

nest parasite lays eggs

Although smaller than many of their kin, Brown-headed Cowbirds are notable for their unique parasitic breeding habits and striking appearance.

These small blackbirds, with thicker heads and shorter tails, are brood parasites, laying eggs in the nests of other species.

Found in Michigan's grasslands and woodlands, they have distinctively shaped bills suited to their specialized feeding habits.

Baltimore Oriole

bird with vibrant plumage

Shifting focus from the intriguing Brown-headed Cowbird, the Baltimore Oriole presents a vivid contrast with its striking orange and black plumage. These birds thrive on a diet of nectar, fruits, and insects.

Remarkably, Baltimore Orioles migrate to Central America during winter. Renowned for their melodious flute-like songs, they typically nest in deciduous trees, adding a vibrant spectacle and soundscape to their surroundings.

Eastern Meadowlark

eastern meadowlark bird species

The Eastern Meadowlark, known for its bright yellow underparts and distinctive black V-shaped breast markings, is a striking sight in Michigan's open grasslands. These birds are celebrated for their melodious, flute-like song.

They are often seen perching on fence posts and can gather in large flocks during migration. This unique species adds a vibrant touch and musical backdrop to the scenic landscapes of Michigan.

Bobolink

bird with tinkling song

Bobolinks, with their distinctive black underparts and bright straw-colored head patches, thrive in the meadows and hayfields of eastern North America. These striking birds boast white backs and a unique appearance that sets them apart.

Their preferred habitats include lush meadows and grassy fields, where their colors blend beautifully with the natural landscape, making them a captivating sight for bird enthusiasts.

Rusty Blackbird

bird with rusty plumage

Rusty Blackbirds, exhibiting rusty brown plumage and distinct white wing patches, primarily inhabit Michigan's boreal forests and wetlands. These birds face a population decline due to habitat loss and pollution, which impacts their breeding grounds.

Prominently seen during Michigan's winter months, Rusty Blackbirds are categorized as near-threatened or vulnerable, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to address these environmental challenges.

Orchard Oriole

colorful bird in trees

Shifting focus to another avian species, Orchard Orioles captivate birdwatchers with their distinctive chestnut and black coloration. These birds thrive in deciduous trees, feeding on insects and fruits.

Their vibrant plumage and rich, whistling songs enhance the natural chorus. Remarkably, Orchard Orioles undertake seasonal migration to Central America, highlighting their remarkable adaptability and the dynamic nature of avian life cycles.

Brewer's Blackbird

common north american bird

In the diverse avian community of Michigan, Brewer's Blackbird stands out due to its sleek, glossy appearance and distinct vocalizations. This stocky bird features a pointed bill, with males displaying a glossy sheen and emitting gurgling calls.

Females are brown, blending into the grasslands and shrubs where they nest. Adaptable to both wild and urban environments, Brewer's Blackbirds are a common sight across the state.

Yellow-headed Blackbird

distinctive blackbird with yellow

Among the diverse bird species in Michigan, the Yellow-headed Blackbird is particularly notable for its striking yellow head and throat set against a contrasting black body.

These birds favor marshes and prairie wetlands for nesting, making them a rare sighting in the state.

Their vibrant yellow heads on black bodies captivate Michigan birdwatchers, who treasure every encounter with this visually striking species.

Western Meadowlark

bird with yellow throat

The Western Meadowlark, recognized for its bright yellow belly and melodious song, thrives in Michigan's open grasslands. These birds sport a distinctive black V-shaped band across their vibrant yellow underparts.

As ground-nesting birds found in open habitats, Western Meadowlarks exhibit striking plumage that makes them a notable presence in the grasslands, appealing to birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Hooded Oriole

vibrant orange and black

Often considered a rare gem in Michigan, the Hooded Oriole captivates with its vivid black and orange plumage. Native to the southwestern US and Mexico, this bird's vibrant colors and melodious songs enchant birdwatchers.

Though sightings in Michigan are uncommon, the presence of these strikingly feathered birds adds a special allure for those fortunate enough to observe them in their occasional northern visits.

Shiny Cowbird

invasive bird species threat

Rarely observed in Michigan, Shiny Cowbirds made a notable appearance at Whitefish Point in 2017. Originating from South America, these accidental species are recognized by their glossy black plumage and iridescent sheen.

Known for their parasitic nesting behavior, Shiny Cowbirds lay eggs in the nests of other birds. This unusual sighting adds a unique chapter to Michigan's birdwatching records.

Bullock's Oriole

bright orange and black

Bullock's Oriole, a striking bird with orange and black plumage, is particularly uncommon in Michigan, with infrequent sightings such as the one in White Pine in 2019.

This brightly colored species constructs distinctive, gourd-shaped nests and is known for its melodious, flute-like song.

The vibrant appearance and rare Michigan sightings make the Bullock's Oriole a remarkable mention among the state's avian population.

Are There Any Black Birds in Michigan that Resemble Hawks?

Yes, in Michigan, you can find black birds that resemble hawks. One of the most commonly spotted types of hawk birds with pictures is the black crow. These birds are often mistaken for hawks due to their similar color and size, but they are actually a different species altogether.

Common Grackle

black iridescent bird species

Common Grackles, recognized by their shimmering black plumage and piercing yellow eyes, are a common sight across Michigan's urban landscapes and open fields. These large blackbirds, part of the Icteridae family, showcase iridescent feathers and are known for their loud calls.

Found throughout North America, they thrive on open ground, actively foraging and contributing vibrantly to the avian diversity of the region.